Targeting Cdc42 to improve cancer immunotherapy
Official title: Rational targeting of Cdc42 to benefit immunotherapy
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10991373 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called Cdc42 can help make cancer treatments work better by boosting the body's immune cells, especially T cells, to fight tumors more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $594,402 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA278756-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991373 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who have not responded well to existing immunotherapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cancers that are not influenced by T cell activity may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how targeting a specific protein, Cdc42, can enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy for cancer patients. The approach focuses on understanding the role of T cells in fighting cancer and how cancer cells suppress these immune responses. By manipulating Treg cells, which normally inhibit T cell activity, the study aims to activate effector T cells to better combat tumors. The research utilizes a small molecule inhibitor to mimic genetic changes that destabilize Treg cells, potentially leading to improved anti-tumor immunity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective cancer immunotherapies that benefit a larger number of patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting immune pathways to enhance cancer treatment, suggesting this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Yi — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Yi
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.